For those of you who travel to the United States for business, school, or just for fun, it can be daunting to consider how you will use your phone. There are a few options, which in this blog, we will divulge the advantages of getting a local phone number and how to do so, as well as your other options.
How Can Those of You Visiting the States Use Your Cellphone?
1.Use public Wi-Fi and call and text using an international calling mobile app
Nowadays, it’s quite convenient to communicate with people as long as there is Wi-Fi. Whether using Wi-Fi calling or communicating online, all you have to do is connect your cell phone to public Wi-Fi and you’ll be connected without using mobile data. You can do this by using apps on your smartphone that will give you a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) number.
The advantage of this method is that there is no financial burden and no extra steps besides a download, making it easy. However, it is also a bit risky because you will have less means of communication in case of an emergency.
For international students, the U.S. is a world they have never experienced before. In some cases, you may get into unexpected trouble which can be very dangerous if you have an unstable plan by relying on Wi-Fi.
Advantages:
Inexpensive
No contracts or forms to fill out
Disadvantages:
If you are in a place where there is no Wi-Fi, you will not be able to use your phone
Doesn’t support emergency calls
Takes more power on your device since it uses Wi-Fi constantly
2. Use your home country phone number by using international roaming
With this method, you can use your home country phone number by using your carrier’s international roaming.
The procedure is simple, and you can use your cell phone immediately after arriving in the States. Though, please note that these services can get expensive very quickly. Also, as we will explain later, this method does not allow you to obtain a phone number in the U.S. which may cause various restrictions in your daily life in the U.S.
Advantages:
No extra steps are needed and you can use the phone immediately upon arrival in the U.S.
Disadvantages:
Expensive
Cannot get a local phone number
Extra cost for U.S. phone numbers contacting you
3. Get a U.S. SIM card and obtain a local cell phone number
With this third method, simply purchase a SIM card, obtain a local phone number, and use your cell phone. This will allow you to communicate with people during your travel and ensure a smooth transition to the States. You may find that some carriers may make it difficult to obtain a SIM card, but here at Jethro Mobile we make it simple.
Advantages:
Obtain a local cell phone number → Smooth communication in the area
Cost-effective, inexpensive
Disadvantage:
Depending on the carrier, the procedure may be complicated
No transferring non US numbers - only able to get a new phone number unless you have a US number already
Why You Should Have a Local Number
Though there are three methods we have covered, Jethro Mobile recommends that you purchase a SIM card and get a local phone number.
When living in the U.S., you will need a local phone number for various situations in your daily life. This could range from:
Obtaining a bank account in the U.S.
Communicating smoothly with those in the U.S.
Web and app services available in the U.S. (e.g. Uber, Lyft, etc.)
Without having to rely on Wi-Fi for connection, dealing with expensive rates from roaming, or U.S. number callers having to pay for international calls with having a phone number from your home country, you won’t have to worry at all!
Services Offered by Jethro Mobile
Though getting a local phone number seems like a hassle, and you don't know how long you will be using your cell phone, don't worry. Jethro Mobile offers a variety of services to solve your problems!
1. Easy to use
Jethro Mobile is very easy to use!
All you need to do is to purchase a SIM card from Jethro Mobile and complete the online activation procedure upon arrival. You can also get your SIM card before you travel and select a start date for your plan in advance. With this way, you can get your purchase and setup done efficiently.
2.Various plans for various situations
Jethro Mobile offers a wide variety of plans for short trips, longer trips, and those who live in the States periodically.
These plans are paid monthly, and the payment method is prepaid, so you only pay for what you need. There is no cancellation fee, and you can stop using the service at any time. Not to mention, all of our plans include unlimited free calling and texting to 80+ countries.
3. Pause your service without repercussions
Jethro Mobile offers a temporary phone number storage service so that you can travel back and forth without changing your number each time.
We will keep your phone number for up to 45 days, free of charge, even if you decide to temporarily suspend your service. Once you are ready to reactivate your phone number, Jethro Mobile will not charge you any fees. No need to worry! Easy, right?
4. Customer support
We offer friendly customer service that is knowledgeable and ready to help 7 days a week.
Ultimate Best Option
Buying a SIM card and getting a local phone number has the best advantages and little to no disadvantages. And with Jethro Mobile, we offer a number of plans and services that allow our customers to use our lines quickly and comfortably.
You don’t have to worry with our hassle free process and no contract term restrictions. With Jethro, you can count on having an affordable and easy travel plan for your mobile needs.
If you are using a cell phone while in the U.S., we hope you will consider one of Jethro Mobile's plans!
Have any more questions?
Reach us here:
Call us- 1.888.509.6199
Email us- info@jethromobile.com
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